Israeli airstrikes on Sunday resulted in the deaths of dozens of people in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the besieged enclave. In Lebanon, at least 23 people were killed in the village of Aalmat, far from Hezbollah strongholds. In the northern Gaza Strip, a strike on a home in Jabaliya killed at least 17, including nine women. In Gaza City, a strike killed a Hamas government minister and his family. The Israeli military claims it targeted militant sites but faces accusations of killing civilians.
Israeli forces have isolated Jabaliya and nearby towns for a month, causing hundreds of deaths and forcing tens of thousands to flee to Gaza City. Experts have warned of imminent famine in the region, prompting calls for increased humanitarian assistance. The ongoing conflict, triggered by Hamas attacks into Israel, has resulted in heavy destruction, especially in the northern part of Gaza. The military maintains it targets militants, accusing them of hiding among civilians, while rights groups have accused Hamas and Israeli authorities of abuse.
Hezbollah has been firing rockets into Israel in solidarity with the Palestinians, leading to all-out war in the region since September. Israel has carried out strikes in Lebanon, while Hezbollah has expanded its rocket fire. The conflict has caused thousands of casualties in both Lebanon and Israel, with significant damage and displacement. The war in Gaza began with Hamas-led attacks in 2023, resulting in the deaths of civilians and abductions. Israeli offensive has led to significant Palestinian casualties, displacement, and destruction in Gaza, with cease-fire talks stalling.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with vast areas in ruins and the majority of the population displaced multiple times. Gazans are living in crowded tent camps with limited resources, unsure of when they can return home or rebuild. Cease-fire efforts led by international mediators such as the United States, Qatar, and Egypt have repeatedly stalled, prolonging the suffering of civilians on both sides. Qatar has suspended its mediation efforts until parties show willingness to end the conflict and alleviate civilian suffering.
